Bozeman Reads Spotlight: GGUW and Bozeman Schools Unite for Early Literacy Success
Greater Gallatin United Way (GGUW) proudly collaborates with Bozeman Reads, an initiative launched in 2021 by The Bozeman School District and the Bozeman Schools Foundation. Focused on preparing children for school and future achievements, Bozeman Reads recognizes the crucial roles parents and childcare providers play in shaping educational journeys. BSD7 understands the early foundation of reading success and invests in the youngest learners through Bozeman Reads. Rooted in the Science of Reading and the belief that parents are a child's first teachers, this project offers services such as family dinners, preschool partnerships, home visits, and a new summer literacy camp in 2023 to build essential skills.
Bozeman Reads and GGUW share the common goal of kindergarten readiness and third-grade reading proficiency. GGUW has provided more than $10,000 in scholarships to families to participate in Bozeman Reads. This collaboration also extends into its second year of summer programming. Bozeman Public Schools recently introduced Jumpstart, a dynamic summer reading program, supported by GGUW with wraparound summer camp sessions to assist working families. Catering to grades K-3, Jumpstart runs Monday-Thursday starting July 8th, promising an optimal learning environment with one teacher for every eight students.
Further enhancing community collaboration, support for multilingual students, and a forthcoming Bozeman Reads Center at Morning Star Elementary underscore the commitment to authentic inclusion. The Classroom-Based program is currently offered to 4-year-olds at Whittier and Hyalite Elementary Schools to 40 students between two classrooms. During the 2024-25 school year The Bozeman Reads Early Learning Center at Morning Star Elementary will expand this program and support the literacy needs of 72 four-year-old students.
In a recent article, Superintendent Casey Bertram emphasized the alignment of these programs with the district's goal of 85% of Kindergarteners reading at grade level by 2025. Bozeman Reads' success is evident, with 71% of Kindergarteners this fall proficient in literacy, rising to 80% for those engaged with Bozeman Reads.
GGUW celebrates its partnership with Bozeman Reads and local school districts. This collaborative effort breaks down literacy barriers, fosters community collaboration, and provides resources for every child's academic success. Bozeman Reads and GGUW are working together to shape a future where literacy is the foundation for every child's success.
Learn more about Bozeman Reads programs.
